Frozen Pineapple Cranberry Salad
A refreshing frozen salad combining tangy cranberry sauce, sweet pineapple, and crunchy pecans, perfect for festive gatherings or a cool, fruity treat during holidays.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the drained crushed pineapple, whole cranberry sauce, and coarsely chopped pecans in a bowl.
- Spoon the mixture into an 8-inch pan or a 1-quart refrigerator ice cube tray.
- Freeze for several hours or overnight until solid.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of whipped topping or Greek yogurt to the mixture before freezing. If you don't have pecans on hand, walnuts or almonds can be excellent substitutes. Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess liquid, which can affect the freezing process. This salad can also be served alongside dishes like Congealed Asparagus Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This Frozen Pineapple Cranberry Salad makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals or summer barbecues. Serve it as a refreshing palate cleanser or as a side to savory dishes like roasted meats. It pairs beautifully with Maine Raspberry Pie for dessert, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Garnish with additional chopped pecans or a sprig of mint for an attractive presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. To enjoy, remove the salad from the freezer and let it soften at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. If you prefer a softer texture, you can also place it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours prior to serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frozen Pineapple Cranberry Salad contains roughly 884 calories, with 10g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to finely chop it and drain any excess juice to maintain the right consistency. Canned pineapple often has added sweetness and moisture, so adjust sugar levels accordingly if using fresh.
How long does it take to freeze the salad?
Typically, the salad needs to freeze for at least 4-6 hours or overnight to become solid. The longer it freezes, the easier it will be to slice and serve. If you're in a hurry, you can reduce the freezing time slightly but ensure it's firm enough to hold its shape.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a few days in advance and stored in the freezer until you're ready to serve. Just remember to let it sit out for a short while before serving to soften it slightly for easier slicing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).